Skilled Labor Simulations Prepare Workers of Tomorrow

In 1937, American Airlines became the first commercial airline to implement a flight simulator for its would-be aviators. It allowed them to offer real-life scenarios so trainees could encounter potential issues and difficult circumstances in a controlled environment. After all, they would be learning safely on the ground with a program designed to teach, and not in the air where inexperience could be problematic.

Most airlines followed suit and by the early ‘60s, flight simulators were the norm. Designed to feel like a real, full-sized cockpit, these flight simulators allowed pilots to familiarize themselves with flight controls and see exactly how aircraft systems responded with simulated weather conditions, system failures and landing and take-off practices. And the more they practiced, the better and more confident they became.

Even non-pilots enjoyed the allure of these, as some of the best-selling video games of all time are flight simulators.

What’s more, in today’s world, where AI and machine learning are infiltrating every industry, simulators no longer are reserved just for pilots. Skilled workers in practically any field can learn the same way and troubleshoot without fear. In fact, over the last few decades, the military, the healthcare sector and other industries have realized the power of simulators. This progress has paved the way for immersive simulations to support training for hands-on workers in the skilled trades.

Developing the Best

Anyone in the plumbing, heating or air conditioning industries understands the challenges of finding skilled laborers, and what’s more, training those you hire to do the job properly takes valuable time and money. Sure, you might be able to show them the basics and talk about some of the unique issues that might pop up, but unless someone actually has first-hand experience and sees what they could be dealing with, the laborers are essentially flying blind.

Thankfully, just like pilots, there are avenues for these workers to learn quicker and better by taking part in realworld simulations. Simulation training for skilled trade workers often relies on utilizing advanced technologies, such as 3D modeling, to create an immersive, interactive learning environment that mimics realistic scenarios in the field.

By doing this, trainees can practice hands-on skill and troubleshoot complex issues without the risks and constraints of actual job sites. They can safely make mistakes and learn from them in a controlled environment without realworld consequences, as the scenarios can play out over and over until that worker masters the fix.

For instance, someone training for a career in the HVAC industry can take part in simulations that replicate various system malfunctions, enabling the workers to diagnose problems and implement solutions in a realistic setting.

Another example is a trainee facing a scenario where he or she encounters a malfunctioning heating system caused by a faulty thermostat and can see the system’s components, diagnostic tools, error codes and other important facets of the problem that they will have to learn to interpret correctly.

A great thing about the advancements in simulators is workers don’t even need to go to a specific class or location in many cases. They can work to become experts anytime, anywhere, by accessing the simulations on a tablet, laptop, desktop computer or VR. Those who continue to progress and practice will prove to their bosses that they are serious about the trade and will do what it takes to succeed.

Another big advantage of simulation training is having the ability to offer immediate feedback, allowing people to learn from their mistakes and letting them refine their techniques rapidly. As a result, simulation enhances skill retention, improves problem-solving capabilities and prepares technicians for the challenges they will face in their careers, ultimately leading to a more competent and confident workforce.

In essence, a business can gain a competitive edge by rapidly developing a well-trained team using such simulations.

After all, by leveraging advanced training simulations, businesses can enhance learner engagement, streamline their operations, and best of all, make anyone job-ready in weeks rather than years. It’s all about closing the skills gap.

Looking Ahead

As AI and machine learning continue to advance — something that is happening faster than anyone imagined — the possibilities for simulations are only going to grow as training becomes more interactive and personalized.

Companies that take advantage of this innovative training method will better ensure their team’s readiness to tackle real-world on-the-job challenges and improve service quality, ultimately strengthening their market position.